05 | “Stature of Traditional Crafts in the Fashion Industry” with Nidhi Bala

Hi! Remember the 2021 Sabyasachi X H&M collection which controversially brought traditional Indian textile culture  into the Indian and international fast fashion lanes? Most of us have watched, shopped, or worn a piece of global culture either in its authentic form, or as a representation - digital prints of weaves, embroideries of traditional art forms, and yet, individually, “traditional” and “fashion” seem to carry polarizing connotations. Many fashion collections have been, and are, shaped by some kind of cultural craft like pottery, or weave, or an art, making it obviously ethical for the fashion industry to accredit the craft-form for the inspiration. Fashion is a powerful poster; still, we hear accountable stories of these traditional works fading into obscurity. These stories are aplenty. Where is the snag - are traditionalists too rigid, or is fashion exploiting the craft sector?  To find answers to this, and similar pressing issues, I question a passionate, expert voice from across the line - I am in conversation today with craft entrepreneur and founder of Tanzeb Chikankari, Nidhi Bala. Equipped with a meagre initial capital and a voracious determined energy to bring the authentic Indian craft of Chikankari embroidery out from its rural homes, Nidhi has introduced craft authenticity, and superlative workmanship to clients spanning the globe. Her undertaking equips the craft’s artisans with self-respect, financial independence, and lenses to see beyond their restrictive livelihoods. “Every piece carries a story”, she shares proudly. You can take a look at the collections crafted by Tanzeb Chikankari . You could also write to Nidhi at [email protected] On UnDressed - the Fashion Edit, we discuss crucial fashion industry subjects that are often swept behind its glamorous front. Check out the trailer for a quick introduction. UnDressed is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. I have a few quick questions for you, I appreciate your opinion and time: Do you own any piece of fashion that is, or represents, an artisanal work? Are you aware of the backstory of that craft? Would it alter your evaluation of that fashion piece if you did know? You can share your viewpoints in the comments below or write to me at [email protected] . I am eager to hear from you! Do share this episode; let’s keep these vital fashion conversations going!  Thank you for being here and for your support! Stay tuned for more, and … stay fashionably you! x The music for this show is by QubeSounds on Pixabay.